Firefighters are called to more than two house blazes every day in Northern Ireland, shocking figures have revealed.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said there were 889 accidental fires at homes throughout the region in the past 12 months - with 11 people losing their lives.

Alan Walmsley, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, warned: "No one is immune to the dangers of fire and no one should become complacent about their own fire safety – it can happen to any of us.

"In 2016, through our own community engagement activities and with the support of the public we can reduce the number of accidental dwelling fires occurring. We all need to take personal responsibility for our own fire safety."

As many people aim to fulfill their New Year's resolution the Fire Service urged the public to take extra care to cut the risks of fires in their homes.

People aged over 65, those with mobility issues or sensory impairment are most at risk and through practical fire safety steps and preventative measures the risk of a fire can be significantly decreased.

Last year's 889 accidental house fires in 2015 was up seven from the previous year.

The Fire Service said one accidental fire death is too many.

Mr Walmsley added: “Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the 11 people who lost their lives in accidental house fires last year.

"For us, as a fire and rescue service, one accidental fire death is one too many and we want to reach a stage where we have no fatalities in Northern Ireland due to accidental houses fires. We remain steadfast in our commitment to achieving that."

The fire service also issued a stark reminder of the importance of checking your smoke alarms are working.

They advise that smoke alarms are checked every week.

The Fire Service will fit a free fire alarm for you if necessary and also provide free advice and home safety checks.

Mr Walmsley added: “Remember to make fire safety in the home the one New Year’s resolution you never break – it could save you and your family’s life.”

To arrange a free Home Fire Safety Check call 028 9260 0477. Text phone/ Minicom 028 9262 8800 or go to their website www.nifrs.org for further information. Follow NIFRS on Facebook and Twitter for regular advice on fire safety.